Cat Tooth Extractions - A Pet Parent's Guide

If your cat has a damaged or diseased tooth a dental extraction may be required. Today, our Memphis vet dentists discuss the reasons that your cat may need to have a tooth removed and what you can expect if they require tooth extraction surgery. 

Dental Care for Cats 

Bringing your cat to our vets for a dental appointment is much like taking your feline friend to a cat dentist.

At Southwind Animal Hospital we provide complete dental care for your cat, including basics such as dental exams, teeth cleanings and polishing, to dental X-rays and surgeries.

Cat Tooth Extractions 

A cat tooth extraction is when a tooth is surgically removed by a veterinary dentist. During the extraction process, your cat will be put under general anesthesia. This keeps them comfortable, prevents them from struggling, and allows our veterinary team to safely complete the extraction. 

Why Your Cat May Need a Tooth Extraction

In most cases, a cat will have to have a tooth removed due to decay or advanced gum disease caused by poor oral hygiene. When a tooth is damaged beyond repair, it is important to remove it in order to prevent infection and pain caused by the decayed tooth.

After your cat has their diseased tooth or teeth removed, you should speak to your vet dentist about the proper home care for your cat to prevent their other teeth from becoming similarly decayed. You should also be sure to bring your cat in for regular professional dental cleanings and examinations. Good dental care is essential to your kitty's oral and overall health. 

Besides the common cause of gum disease and decay, your cat may also need a tooth removed for the following reasons:

• Fractured or broken teeth - Broken teeth can lead to painful abscesses and infection.
• Deciduous teeth - Baby teeth that do not fall out on their own may need to be removed.
• Oral tumors - The treatment of tumors may involve the extraction of nearby teeth.
• Orthodontic abnormalities - Just like humans, sometimes cats have teeth where they don't belong.

Your Cat's Recovery From Dental Surgery

Teeth all are held into our mouths by roots. In cats, as many as three roots can be holding an individual tooth. To fully extract a tooth, all roots must be removed.

During your cat's dental surgery, they will be under the effects of anesthesia. When they wake up they will very likely be groggy or lethargic for the remainder of the day - this is completely normal. 

As the recovery from this procedure is relatively quick, you should be able to bring your pet home on the same day as the procedure. If your pet eats primarily hard kibble, you can soften it in warm water prior to serving it for the first few days.

Possible Post-Surgery Complications

Most cats heal well following tooth extraction surgery, there may be occasional instances of complications during the recovery process. Some of the symptoms to watch out for are:

• A foul odor coming from your cat’s mouth

• A slight swelling on the lower or upper jawline, or under the eye area; the eye may also seem to bulge or protrude from your cat’s head

• Refusal of food

• Drainage from the nose or mouth

• General sluggishness

• Drooling

• Pawing at the mouth or rubbing their face on the ground

• Dropping food while eating

You may also notice traces of blood in your cat's saliva. While this is normal, there should not be any significant bleeding. If there is, contact your veterinary dentist immediately. 

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition.